Before signing an ADU construction agreement in Los Angeles, homeowners should understand the proposed unit, site assumptions, design responsibilities, permit process, utility work, allowances, exclusions, payment schedule, and construction timeline. A detailed contract cannot eliminate every unknown, but it can make responsibilities and decisions much clearer.
KM Builders provides ADU construction and garage conversions in Los Angeles, helping homeowners coordinate property review, plans, permitting, construction, inspections, and completion.
What should the ADU scope describe?
The agreement should identify the approximate size, location, rooms, exterior work, utility connections, site access, and major systems. It should also explain whether demolition, grading, drainage, landscaping restoration, fencing, appliances, and finish selections are included.
Start by reviewing the decisions in our Los Angeles ADU planning guide. Those early choices directly affect design and construction scope.
Who is responsible for plans and permits?
Clarify who measures the property, prepares architectural plans, coordinates engineering, submits to the appropriate jurisdiction, responds to corrections, pays agency fees, schedules inspections, and secures final approval. Our plans, design, and permits service explains how these steps fit into a residential project.
Permit requirements depend on the property and scope. Review the broader Los Angeles remodeling permit overview before relying on a generic timeline.
How should allowances and selections be handled?
Allowances should state what they cover and how differences are calculated. Confirm who selects cabinets, countertops, flooring, tile, fixtures, windows, doors, lighting, appliances, and hardware—and when those decisions must be finalized to protect the schedule.
What utility and site questions should be answered?
- Where will water, sewer, gas, and electrical connections run?
- Does the existing electrical service need evaluation or upgrading?
- How will crews and equipment access the construction area?
- What happens to patios, landscaping, irrigation, and fencing?
- How will drainage and privacy be addressed?
Examples in the KM Builders project portfolio can help homeowners compare detached ADUs, garage conversions, and other residential additions across the Los Angeles area.
Which local conditions can affect an ADU?
Lot shape, existing structures, easements, hillside conditions, utility locations, and jurisdiction-specific review can influence the plan. Properties in Tarzana, Encino, and Calabasas should each be evaluated based on their actual site and governing agency.
Quick answers before signing an ADU agreement
Should the lowest ADU proposal automatically win?
No. Compare scope, exclusions, allowances, plans, permit coordination, utility assumptions, schedule, communication, and contractor credentials—not only the total.
Can the final price change after construction begins?
Changes can occur when homeowners change the scope or concealed conditions require additional work. The agreement should explain documentation and approval procedures.
How can KM Builders review my property?
Request a free ADU consultation to discuss the property, intended use, budget, and practical next steps.